ABILENE, Texas (THECOUNT) — Kaydien Putman, 24, of Abilene, was killed Thursday night after the motorcycle he was riding collided with a passenger vehicle along a major south Abilene roadway, according to Abilene police.
Authorities say the fatal crash occurred at approximately 10 p.m. along Buffalo Gap Road near the intersection with Bettes Lane. Investigators reported that Putman was operating a 2008 Kawasaki motorcycle traveling southbound when it struck a 2011 Mazda CX-7 under circumstances that remain under investigation.
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Following the collision, Putman was ejected from the motorcycle and sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Police confirmed that Putman was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Buffalo Gap Road is one of Abilene’s primary north-south thoroughfares, carrying steady traffic through residential, commercial, and retail areas on the city’s southwest side. The roadway is known for higher speed limits compared to neighborhood streets and serves as a connector between South Abilene and U.S. Highway 83/84. Bettes Lane intersects Buffalo Gap Road near several apartment complexes and businesses, creating frequent turning traffic in the area.
According to Abilene police, the Mazda CX-7 involved in the crash was traveling in the same area at the time of the collision. Authorities have not released the identity of the driver of the Mazda, and police did not report any serious injuries to occupants of that vehicle.
Investigators stated that no citations were issued at the scene and no arrests have been made in connection with the crash. While the investigation remains ongoing, police indicated that speed is believed to have been a contributing factor. Officials did not specify which vehicle may have been traveling at an unsafe speed or whether road, lighting, or visibility conditions played a role.
Emergency responders arrived on scene shortly after the crash was reported. Portions of Buffalo Gap Road near Bettes Lane were impacted during the investigation as officers documented the scene, assessed vehicle damage, and gathered evidence to reconstruct the events leading up to the collision.
Motorcycle crashes often result in severe injuries due to the lack of structural protection afforded to riders compared to passenger vehicles. Even when helmets are worn, high-speed impacts can be fatal, particularly on multi-lane roadways such as Buffalo Gap Road where traffic moves at higher speeds.
Abilene police confirmed that Putman’s family has been notified of his death. Officials have not released additional information regarding Putman’s background or how long he had been riding motorcycles.
The Abilene Police Department’s Traffic Division continues to investigate the crash. As part of the process, investigators typically analyze vehicle positions, roadway markings, damage patterns, and any available witness statements or surveillance footage from nearby businesses or residences.
Police have not announced whether further findings will be released or if the investigation could result in future citations. At this stage, authorities emphasized that the case remains open pending a full review of all available evidence.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information relevant to the investigation is encouraged to contact the Abilene Police Department.
A GoFundMe was started to help with expenses.
Via GoFundMe:
Kaydien Putnam was a husband and father who tragically lost his life in an accident at 24 years old. He was a good man and a good boss; as his employees, we want to come together to raise money for his wife and young daughter through these hard times. If you are able to donate, anything helps!
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